The Shropshire Union canal towpath in Ellesmere Port, part of the Cheshire Cycleway, is to be given an all-weather hard surface.

As well as forming part of the round-Cheshire route, this 1.7km stretch links NCN route 5 to the Waterway Museum at Ellesmere Port.

Wendy Capelle, local waterway manager with the Canal & River Trust, said: 

“This stretch of towpath is very popular and we are delighted to receive funding from Cheshire West and Chester Council to allow us to improve the surface for everyone who enjoys visiting the canal. The Shropshire Union Canal provides a wonderful green corridor away from the busy urban streets. With the funding the towpath will provide a good quality surface, even after heavy rain which is great news for local residents.”

Sections of the towpath will be closed while the work is carried out and diversion routes will be signed. The Trust is expecting to have the improved towpath open for Easter.